Romania and Bulgaria will officially join the Schengen Area as full members starting Wednesday, ending a 13-year wait. This integration allows free movement across land and air borders, following the lifting of checks at airports and ports. Political leaders hailed this as a historic decision, fulfilling a long-standing objective since their EU accession in 2007. While there are hopes for economic benefits and improved transportation efficiency, concerns remain over Bulgaria’s infrastructure. Celebrations are planned at border crossings to mark the occasion.